Oral Answers to Questions

Anna Gelderd Excerpts

Wednesday 17th June 2026 Commons Chamber

[The Deputy Prime Minister]

The right hon. Gentleman and I have made common cause on a range of issues, cross-party, over the years. On the central issue, I am proud that we have seen a reduction in net migration of 82% over the 23 months that we have been in power. We cannot both grip this problem and say, when it comes to ensuring that people are detained—most often so that they can be removed—“Not in my patch.” I do not know the detail of his circumstances, and of course the immigration Minister will look at this matter, but we have to be honest about what the British public expect us to do on their behalf.

[Anna Gelderd (South East Cornwall) (Lab)]

Q13. I welcome the Government’s willingness to take tough action to protect young people online. It reflects growing concerns about the harms that can arise from online platforms, including self-harm, suicide and poor mental health. The consequences can be truly devastating for those affected, including families in South East Cornwall whose experiences I will never forget. Individuals and companies are promoting and profiting from harmful material and behaviour online that would attract far greater scrutiny, rightly, in the offline world. Freedom of speech must be defended, but what we have online is often not free speech, but manipulated speech. Companies with influence over what millions of people see should be held accountable and made responsible. Does the Deputy Prime Minister agree? What further action will the Government take to strengthen accountability and protect young people online before more lives are lost?

[The Deputy Prime Minister]

I agree 100% with my hon. Friend. I know that she has worked closely with families affected by harmful content in her constituency. Our decision to ban social media for under-16s is a landmark moment that will ensure that we better protect children and young people across our country. We will absolutely hold platforms to account for the harms that they can cause. That is why we have asked Ofcom to review their capability to enforce the social media ban and publish a clear enforcement strategy.